National Banana Split Day 2018: A Review of Free Offers and Historical Context

National Banana Split Day is observed annually on August 25th, a date designated to celebrate the classic ice cream dessert. The holiday offers consumers an opportunity to enjoy the treat, often through promotional offers from restaurants and ice cream chains. While the specific date of August 25th is noted in the source material, the available information regarding "freebies" for the year 2018 is derived from general National Ice Cream Day promotions observed in July of that year. These July offers provide context for the types of discounts consumers might expect during national food holidays, though specific promotions for August 25, 2018, are not detailed in the provided documents.

Historical Origins of the Banana Split

The banana split is a historic dessert that originated in the United States during the late 19th century. It is classified as a type of ice cream sundae traditionally served in a long dish known as a "boat" or "banana boat." The construction of a traditional banana split involves slicing a banana lengthwise and placing the halves on the bottom of the boat. Three scoops of ice cream—typically vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry—are arranged in a row between the banana halves. The dessert is then topped with chocolate, pineapple, and strawberry sauces, though the pairing of specific sauces with specific ice creams is not strictly defined. To finish, the sundae is garnished with whipped cream, crushed nuts, and a maraschino cherry.

The dessert traces its roots to the soda fountains of the 1890s, which served as social hubs similar to modern coffee shops. These establishments were staffed by "soda jerks," who functioned as mixologists and inventors of new treats to attract customers. One notable origin story attributes the invention of the banana split to David Evans Strickler, a 23-year-old apprentice pharmacist at Tassel Pharmacy in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Strickler, who enjoyed working at the store’s soda fountain, is credited with inventing the sundae, which eventually led to the creation of the banana split.

National Ice Cream Day Promotions (2018 Context)

While National Banana Split Day is a specific holiday, National Ice Cream Month is celebrated in July, with National Ice Cream Day falling on the third Sunday of the month. In 2018, National Ice Cream Day occurred on July 15. Various brands offered free treats and discounts during this period, which serves as a reference point for consumers seeking freebies during national food holidays.

Major Chain Offers

During National Ice Cream Day in July 2018, several major ice cream chains and retailers offered promotions. It is important to note that these offers were generally valid only at participating locations, and consumers were advised to verify participation with their local stores.

Baskin Robbins: In 2018, Baskin Robbins offered a free scoop of ice cream to customers who downloaded the mobile app. Additionally, on July 31, 2018 (celebrating the brand's 31 flavors), participating locations offered scoops for $1.50.
Carvel: Carvel offered a buy-one-get-one-free deal on ice cream cups or cones of any size on July 15, 2018.
Cold Stone Creamery: This chain offered a buy-one-get-one-free promotion on ice cream with mix-ins for members of their eClub. It was noted that it might take up to 24 hours to receive the email offer.
Dairy Queen: Dairy Queen provided a free small Blizzard treat through their mobile app.
Dippin’ Dots: During a two-hour window (which was not disclosed in advance), Dippin’ Dots offered free mini cups.
Godiva: The chocolate store offered a buy-one-get-one-free promotion on their soft serve.
Wienerschnitzel: Consumers could print a coupon to receive $1 off a banana split shake.
Yogurtland: A buy-one-get-one-free offer was available on five specific ice cream flavors, as well as frozen yogurt and sorbet, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Retail and Specialty Offers

Other retailers and pet-focused businesses also participated in National Ice Cream Day promotions:

Sam’s Club: Sam’s Club offered free ICEE float samples with a dollop of Member’s Mark Premium Vanilla Ice Cream. The available flavors were Frozen Cherry, Frozen Pepsi, and Frozen Blue Raspberry.
Whole Foods: Whole Foods held a three-day sale on ice cream brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Talenti, including non-dairy options. Prime members received an additional 10% off during this sale.
Petsmart: Petsmart offered complimentary four-ounce servings of pet-friendly ice cream at PetsHotel locations on Saturday and Sunday (presumably July 14 and 15, 2018).

Banana Split Variations and Recipes

For consumers looking to celebrate National Banana Split Day at home, the source material provides a recipe for a "No-Bake Banana Split Pie." This variation offers a way to enjoy the flavors of a banana split without the need for an ice cream maker or heating up the kitchen.

No-Bake Banana Split Pie

This recipe, created by Jonathan Melendez of The Candid Appetite, is a frozen pie made without traditional ice cream. It is designed to serve 12 people and requires a preparation time of 30 minutes plus 4.5 hours of freezing time.

Ingredients:

Crust:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
Filling:
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large bananas, sliced
- 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
Topping:
- 1-1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, slightly warmed
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 tablespoon rainbow sprinkles
- 1/4 cup drained maraschino cherries

Preparation Instructions:

To ensure the smoothest filling, the cream cheese and butter should be brought to room temperature before mixing.

Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Pour the mixture into a buttered 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish using hands. Place the dish in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
Prepare the Filling: Beat the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, approximately 5 minutes. Pour this mixture onto the chilled crust and use a rubber spatula to smooth it out evenly.
Add Layers: Top the cream cheese mixture with the sliced bananas in an even layer. Spread the crushed pineapple over the bananas, followed by the sliced strawberries.
Prepare the Topping: Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped cream mixture over the fruit layers.
Garnish: Drizzle the warm hot fudge sauce over the whipped cream. Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts, rainbow sprinkles, and maraschino cherries.
Freeze: Return the pie to the freezer for at least 4 hours (or until firm) before serving.

Conclusion

National Banana Split Day on August 25th celebrates a dessert with deep roots in American soda fountain history. While specific freebies for the August 2018 holiday are not detailed in the provided documents, National Ice Cream Day in July 2018 featured a wide array of promotions from major chains like Baskin Robbins, Dairy Queen, and Carvel. For those wishing to celebrate at home, the no-bake banana split pie recipe offers a convenient, crowd-pleasing alternative to the traditional sundae.